Ending Negative Conversations – Vol. 408, April 6, 2017
Think of a time when you were having a conversation with someone who was in your face about something that had nothing to do with the person that you are currently. Perhaps it is an interaction with a sibling who is constantly bringing up embarrassing things you did when you were a child, and now it’s 40 years later, and still they are bringing these things up. Or how about that person who can’t let go of something you said, and keeps on putting it in your face, when all you want is for them to “shut up” about the whole thing, it being long done?
There are some people who just don’t know when to stop talking when these things occur. If someone is in your face about something that you feel has zero to do with who you are currently, or someone that you haven’t had communication with for a long time – the best way to handle it is to just STOP ENGAGING with them.
Think about it this way. If you have a argument with someone and you turn on your heel and walk away, who is there for them to engage with? The answer is no one. So, just stop the conversation. Sometimes it is necessary for you to say something like “It is over, let it go.” Or “There is nothing more to be said, I have moved on.” That creates a very strong boundary to let the other person know there is nothing else to be said. And, then move on with your day.
It is unfortunate that there are people in the world who feel they have the right to tell another what to do. However, the only time this is appropriate is when you have asked for the advice, suggestion, or input. If you have not, then there is no reason for another to force their ideas onto you. The one exception to this rule is if the person involved truly cares about you and feels that perhaps you are doing something that could harm you or someone else. However, you know in that case that the person has only your best interest at heart. That being said, you still have the option of taking that other person’s input or not.
